Visa application centers in China closed till March 9

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? Ireland’s visa application centers in China remain closed until March 9.

What does the change mean? Visa-required nationals applying for an Irish entry visa will not be able to complete application requirements in China.

• Implementation time frame: Ongoing until March 9.
• Visas/permits affected: Tourist/business/work visas and work permits.
• Who is affected: Visa-required nationals in China and their employers.
• Business impact: Employers of Chinese nationals may experience delays affecting employee mobility.
• Next steps: Employers should anticipate continued restrictions regarding Chinese nationals and travel from China.

Background: Ireland originally stated that visa application centers in China would be temporarily closed until Feb. 16, and then extended the closure. The continued closure of the centers reflects the seriousness of the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak.

Analysis & Comments: While it will still be possible to apply for an Irish visa online in the normal manner, the continued closures mean that appointments for applicants to have their biometrics taken or submit their documents at a visa application center in China will be delayed. Existing appointments may also have to be rescheduled, in which case, VFS will contact applicants directly. The response to the COVID-19 virus continues to evolve, and Deloitte will alert clients to additional changes or restrictions as information becomes available.

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